J. Michael Cline, a prominent finance executive and the founder of Fandango, tragically passed away at the age of 64 after a fatal fall from a high-rise hotel in New York City. The incident occurred at The Kimberly Hotel on East 50th Street, where authorities responded to emergency calls on Tuesday morning. Upon arrival, law enforcement found an unconscious male with injuries consistent with a fall from a height. Despite efforts by emergency medical services, Cline was pronounced dead at the scene. While the exact cause of death has not been officially confirmed, there are indications that it may have been a suicide.
Cline, an alumnus of Cornell University and Harvard Business School, established Fandango in 2000, a popular movie ticketing service that was later acquired by Comcast in 2007. During his tenure at Fandango, Cline played a pivotal role in its growth and success before departing in 2011. The company is now under the ownership of NBCUniversal and Warner Bros.
In addition to Fandango, Cline was a serial entrepreneur, founding several other ventures including R1 RCM, Accolade, Insureon, Everspring, and Accumen. He also held key positions at Accretive, LLC, General Atlantic, and McKinsey & Company throughout his illustrious career in the finance industry.
At the time of his passing, Cline was actively involved in various business endeavors, serving as the executive chairman of investment firm Juxtapose and as the chairman of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. He leaves behind his wife Pamela B. Cline and their six children, mourning the loss of a visionary leader and dedicated family man.
The news of J. Michael Cline's untimely death has sent shockwaves through the business community, prompting expressions of condolences and remembrance for his contributions to the industry. Our thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time.